The show at Hall Place takes visitors on a fascinating journey of people and places from African plains and Norwegian fjords to Italian cities, contrasted with Bexley as they were a century ago.

Kirsty Macklen, collections manager at Hall Place, said: “Little is known of both Boswell and indeed of many of the subjects shown in the pictures, which makes them both captivating and mysterious.

“By definition photography, was so different then which makes for an interesting counterpoint to the pervasiveness of digital photography today.”

Illuminated World provides a magical encounter of life in Victorian times and an appreciation of the customs and cultures which would have enchanted observers during an era when people were travelling more than ever before.

Visitors will also learn about photographic techniques of the time with original apparatus on display.

The exhibition will lead people through a series of splendid rooms in Hall Place, each more captivating than the last, as it charts Boswell’s exploration through imagery of the world, coming back to his beloved Bexley.

Unearthed from the town’s local archive, this is the first time the images created from original glass lantern slides have been on show to the public.

The selection represents only a fraction of the total of some 14,000 images.

Caroline Worthington, chief executive of Bexley Heritage Trust, said: “Illuminated World is an exhibition we are delighted to unveil.

“We know it will appeal equally to photography and history lovers as much as it will to residents.

“This continues a series of innovative and engaging exhibitions as we aim to cement Hall Place as a must-visit tourist destination and attract more visitors from the capital and around the UK.”

The display runs until March 17.

Admission to the exhibition is included in the entrance ticket to the house (£7 for adults, £5 for children and £20 for families).

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